A Message from the District Governor
Dear Fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Friends of Rotary in District 7080,
Every April, Rotary lights a fire under us all: it is Rotary’s Environment Month, a reminder that our planet is not just scenery—it is our home. And therefore, it is the
best time to focus on sustainability and ecological initiatives around the globe. And in District 7080, we are not waiting for someone else to fix things. Rather we are
taking matters in our own hands, from shoreline cleanups to tree-planting days, proving small actions add up to big change.
best time to focus on sustainability and ecological initiatives around the globe. And in District 7080, we are not waiting for someone else to fix things. Rather we are
taking matters in our own hands, from shoreline cleanups to tree-planting days, proving small actions add up to big change.
Look around Southwestern Ontario—our clubs are already out there. The Environment Committee pushes us to protect forests, lakes, and air while building community know-how. Think sustainable farming, cutting emissions, even teaching kids why every plastic bag matters
Rotary Clubs around the world participate in a variety of activities and projects:
- Reforestation Projects: Planting trees and restoring natural habitats.
- Clean Energy Initiatives: Promoting the use of renewable energy sources.
- Water Conservation Efforts: Implementing projects that ensure clean-water access and sustainable water management.
- Community Education: Raising awareness about environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices within communities.
Rotary International turns April into a worldwide call-to-action, tying it right to Earth Day on April 22. It is not just talk—it is backed with real muscle:
partnerships like the Community Action for Fresh Water initiative, where clubs restore rivers, fight climate impacts, and push sustainable farming everywhere
from Guatemala to the Philippines. They hand out grants, share tools, and rally millions of us to tackle pollution, deforestation, and waste—because healthy
ecosystems mean healthier people, stronger economies, stronger peace.
partnerships like the Community Action for Fresh Water initiative, where clubs restore rivers, fight climate impacts, and push sustainable farming everywhere
from Guatemala to the Philippines. They hand out grants, share tools, and rally millions of us to tackle pollution, deforestation, and waste—because healthy
ecosystems mean healthier people, stronger economies, stronger peace.
And speaking of ripple effects—one standout is Rotary’s tie-up with the UN Environment Programme: Community Action for Fresh Water. Launched a couple
years back, it is all about local clubs teaming up to clean rivers, plant buffers, and protect watersheds worldwide. From installing water towers in rural India to
rallying volunteers along polluted streams—it is hands-on, borderless, and straight-up hopeful. Clubs get expert guides, funding boosts, and a global network to
amplify every drop saved.
years back, it is all about local clubs teaming up to clean rivers, plant buffers, and protect watersheds worldwide. From installing water towers in rural India to
rallying volunteers along polluted streams—it is hands-on, borderless, and straight-up hopeful. Clubs get expert guides, funding boosts, and a global network to
amplify every drop saved.
What gets me? It is not grand speeches—it is Rotarians hiking trails, picking litter, or chatting over coffee about greener habits. We are not saving the world alone,
but together!! We are planting hope, one root at a time. So, grab a shovel, sign up for a cleanup, or just chat with your club—April is your cue.
but together!! We are planting hope, one root at a time. So, grab a shovel, sign up for a cleanup, or just chat with your club—April is your cue.
Let’s make this month count for our environment and for our future.
Coming Soon! The Unite for Good Million Dollar Gala
As a reminder, the Foundation Committee—under the leadership of Chair Tom Mennill and District Endowment and Major Gifts Chair (DEMC) Richard Delongte—is spearheading our Million-Dollar Campaign, a bold initiative to elevate District 7080’s impact to new heights.
To mark the successful conclusion of this campaign, we are thrilled to host a once-in-a-decade celebration: The “Unite for Good” Million-Dollar-Gala.
This exclusive event is specifically designed to honor and celebrate the Major Donors and Bequest Society members whose generosity is making this monumental goal a reality.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, May 22, 2026
- Location: TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley Golf Resort (proud home of the 2025 & 2026 RBC Canadian Open)
- Opening Remarks: The Honourable Sylvia Jones, Minister of Health and Deputy Premier of Ontario.
- Keynote Speaker: Past Rotary International President Jennifer Jones, who will join us to inspire attendees and celebrate our collective success.
Securing the "Promise of Rotary"
While our annual giving fuels the life-changing projects we see today, the Endowment Fund serves as the cornerstone of Rotary’s future. Often called our "permanent fund," the Endowment is invested in perpetuity, ensuring that a portion of the earnings is spent each year while the principal remains intact.
This unique financial model means that a gift made today becomes a legacy that never stops giving. By reaching our million-dollar goal, we aren't just hitting a number—we are securing the "promise of Rotary" and ensuring our work in peace, health, and community development will continue for generations to come.
How to Secure Your Invitation
Personal invitations for this landmark gala are reserved for major contributors to the campaign. To find out how you can contribute to The Rotary Foundation and secure your invitation to the gala, please contact DEMC Richard Delongte at richard.delongte@rotary7080.org.
Bring the Message to Your Club
Richard has developed an inspiring presentation focused on the Endowment Fund, covering both bequests and cash donations. He is offering to present this to any interested clubs. Please reach out to Richard directly or contact me to schedule a visit.
Let us all work together to make this campaign a resounding success and ensure our District has the funds needed for the amazing local and international projects our clubs support!
Yours in Rotary,
Susanne Zbinden
District Governor 2025-26,
Rotary District 7080